13 December 2021
Ballance Agri-Nutrients has appointed Michele Kernahan as an Independent Director, bringing a new set of complementary skills and knowledge to the Ballance Board.
“In the current ever-changing environment, Michele’s considerable experience in leading large manufacturing and infrastructure businesses, her supply chain knowledge and commercial acumen will add strength to the diverse skill set already sitting around the board table,” says Duncan Coull, Ballance Chair.
Michele has proven expertise in leading large organisations and improving performance and shareholder returns.
Most recently she was Chief Executive of the country’s leading temperature-controlled transport Group, Hall’s and previously spent 21 years with Fletcher Building. She was Chief Executive of the Building Products division, Chief Executive of Fletcher Construction, General Manager Laminex Australia, Earthquake Recovery and Golden Bay Cement.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to join Ballance and be part of a team that is leading environmentally sustainable nutrient management, which is so important for New Zealand consumers and for farmers and growers to be able to thrive.” says Michele.
“Before my official start early next year, I’ll be very focused on how I can translate the experience I’ve gained throughout my career to support the Board and ultimately the primary sector, which is the backbone of New Zealand’s economy.”
Michele is also currently on the Board of NZX listed New Zealand Automotive Investments Limited.
Michele is replacing Independent Director Kim Ellis who has been a valued member of the Ballance Board for nine years. His strong commercial acumen and proven leadership has ensured that Ballance is an organisation that has a clear direction focused on the needs of its shareholders now and into the future
“Our board is very focused on ensuring Ballance is future-ready to support the primary sector to be sustainably productive through nutrient leadership,” says Duncan Coull, Ballance Chair.
"We are really looking forward to Michele joining Ballance, her considerable real-world understanding of how to lead successful companies will be invaluable.
“I also want to take this this opportunity to thank Kim for his outstanding contribution to the Ballance board over the past nine years,” says Duncan.